Avid cook who loved to fish
MELROSE — Theodore Jay “Ted” Vrooman, 61, passed away unexpectedly, on Monday, July 3 at the Parkland Medical Center. Ted was born on March 3, 1962, in Chelsea to Milton and Gertrude (Banks) Vrooman.
A proud pressman, Ted spent 35 years of his life working the printing industry. He began his career with Daniel’s Printing in Everett in 1988. There, he worked side by side with his brother Paul and created many long-lasting friendships in the time he spent there. Ted spent the last 13 years working with Spire, where he had earned the title of Journeyman Head-Pressman.
An avid cook at home, Ted loved trying out and “tweaking” new recipes. He showed his love for his family by spending countless hours preparing meals for them. It brought him immense joy to watch his children enjoy the spread he had created. He was known for his homemade meatballs, among other things.
When he wasn’t enjoying time with friends and loved ones, Ted could be found on Cobbett’s Pond or Canobie Lake with a fishing pole in his hand. Ted had a lifelong passion for fishing, one that he passed down to his children and grandchildren. He thoroughly enjoyed his time spent fishing with his dear friend, Frank Johnson and the two would often share stories and reminiscence.
Ted will be deeply missed by his life partner of 24 years, his companion, best friend and fishing buddy, Tracy Johnson, of Windham, NH. He believed that his highest calling in life was to be the best father and grandfather that he could. He was the proud father of Theodore Jay Jr. and his husband Alex of Wilmington; Nicholas Paul and his wife Kelly of Melrose; and Christine Marie Crow and her husband Josh of Stratham, NH. His most cherished role of “Papa 6” was to Emma, Abby, Nicky, Amelia, Molly and Della. He had a very special relationship with each one of his grandchildren. Papa will be missed by them.
Ted is also survived by his mother, Gertrude Vrooman; the mother of his children, Lisa Ollis; and his brother James Vrooman and his wife Charlene of Falmouth. In addition to his father, he was predeceased by his brother, Paul Vrooman.
Ted’s funeral service was held on Saturday, July 8 at 11 a.m. at the Windham Presbyterian Church, 1 Church Rd., Windham, NH 03087.
Arrangements were in the care of the Carrier Family Funeral Home, 38 Range Rd., Windham, NH 03087. For directions or to leave a message of condolence, please visit www.carrierfuneralhome.com.
